Creamy Dreamy Cheesy Rice

Easy Cheesy Rice Recipe Ultimate Comfort Food

By SandraJuly 3, 2025

Craving easy cheesy rice recipe cheesy This creamy cheddar cheese rice is proper comfort food Quick simple and perfect as a side dish Get the recipe now ... Healthy Eats

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Creamy Dreamy Cheesy Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Side

Ever just need a hug in a bowl? Honestly, this cheesy rice recipe easy cheesy is exactly that. It's pure comfort food.

We're talking proper deliciousness. And it all starts with simple ingredients.

Quick & Cheesy Intro

Looking for a quick side dish? This cheesy rice side dish is your answer. This recipe will quickly become your go-to.

It's packed with flavour. That cheddar cheese just melts into the rice. It's proper heaven.

Nan's Would be Proud

Originating from the good ol' American tradition of comfort food rice , this creamy, cheesy rice is a real crowd-pleaser.

It's a classic! This recipe is super easy. It only takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe makes 4 servings.

Enough for the whole family!

Main Benefit: Maximum Comfort

This simple cheesy rice isn't just tasty. It's also a decent source of protein, thanks to the cheese. It's the perfect side for a Sunday roast or even just a quick mid-week meal.

What makes this recipe special? It's unbelievably easy. It's that homemade cheesy rice taste. But without all the fuss. Plus, who doesn't love cheese? It's quick cheesy rice!

Right, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. First up, the ingredients.

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Cheesy Rice Recipe Easy Cheesy Starter Pack

Right, let's talk ingredients, shall we? This easy cheesy rice recipe is so simple, you probably have most of this stuff already.

We're making comfort food rice , people! Think cheddar cheese rice that's ridiculously tasty and totally achievable.

Main Ingredients: What You Need

1 cup (200g) long grain white rice. Basmati or Jasmine work a treat. Rinse it first, yeah?
2 cups (475ml) chicken broth. Veggie broth works too for a cheesy rice side dish .
1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese. A good mature cheddar gives the best flavour. Trust me.
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter.
1/4 cup (30g) finely chopped yellow onion. Optional, but adds a nice bit of flavour.
1 clove garlic, minced. Again, optional but I love garlic.
1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt. Adjust to your taste, obvs.
1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper.
1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) paprika. Totally optional, just for a bit of colour.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives. Garnish is always a good idea.

Seasoning Notes: Spicing Things Up

The key is to keep it simple. Salt, pepper, and good cheese are your best friends for a quick cheesy rice .

Paprika adds a nice smokiness. Experiment with other spices if you're feeling adventurous, but don't overdo it. Remember, this is comfort food rice not a complicated curry.

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for spice.

I reckon the beauty of this recipe is how adjustable it is.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!

Medium saucepan with a lid. Essential for cooking the rice properly.
Small skillet. Optional, for sauteing the onion and garlic.
Measuring cups and spoons. Gotta be accurate, innit?
Fork. For fluffing the rice at the end.

Honestly, that's all you need. This one pot cheesy rice version makes everything super easy.

So there you have it. A creamy rice recipe that's so easy, it's practically foolproof. Now let's get cooking, shall we? We are not making a cheesy rice casserole , we make it fast.

Creamy Dreamy Cheesy Rice : The Ultimate Comfort Side

Fancy a bit of comfort food rice ? This easy cheesy rice recipe is about to become your new best mate in the kitchen.

Forget those dodgy packets. We're talking proper, homemade cheesy rice . A simple side that everyone will love, from picky kids to grumpy grandads.

It's so simple it would be a sin.

Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Lowdown

Honestly, a bit of prep makes all the difference. First, rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water. This gets rid of extra starch for fluffy rice.

Chop 1/4 cup of onion (if using) and mince 1 clove of garlic (ditto). Measure out your 2 cups of broth and 1 cup of cheese.

This will save time. I promise you.

Step-by-Step Cheesy Rice Easy Cheesy Goodness

Right, let's get cooking.

Bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a pan.
Add 1 cup of rinsed rice. Reduce heat to low, cover it.
Simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is soft. Also till all the liquid has gone. No peeking !
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet (optional). Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Stir in cheese, melted butter (if using), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika.
Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and creamy.
Garnish with parsley or chives (if desired).
Serve immediately!

Cheesy Rice Side Dish : Pro Tips and Tricks

Wanna level up your quick cheesy rice ? Try a combo of cheddar and Monterey Jack. Ooooh yes! Also, melt the cheese over low heat.

High heat leads to stringy cheese, and nobody wants that.

Common Mistakes to Avoid : Don't overcook the rice, or it gets mushy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes. The recipe becomes a perfect creamy rice recipe .

The Ultimate Cheesy Rice Casserole (A Classic, Innit?)

This recipe could easily transform into a cheesy rice casserole . The best option! Just chuck it all in an oven dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until golden and bubbly.

It's a one pot cheesy rice dream. Perfect for minimal washing up. Brilliant!

Recipe Notes: Making the Best Cheesy Rice Recipe Easy Cheesy

So, you're about to embark on this easy cheesy rice recipe adventure? Ace! Here are a few things I've picked up making this, shall we say, quite a few times.

Seriously, this comfort food rice is on repeat at my place.

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Cheesy Rice Side Dish

Right, let’s talk plating. Honestly, a simple bowl works. But you could get fancy. Think sprinkling extra cheddar cheese rice on top.

A little chopped parsley adds a pop of colour. It makes it look like you’ve put in loads of effort, even if you haven't!

This goes amazing with a roast chicken, innit? Or a banging burger. A side salad works well too, just to get some greens in.

For drinks, maybe a crisp white wine or even just a nice cuppa.

Storage Tips: Keep That Creamy Rice Recipe Fresh

Okay, leftovers. Who doesn’t love leftovers? This simple cheesy rice will keep in the fridge for like, three days. Just whack it in an airtight container.

To reheat, a microwave works wonders. Or you can gently reheat it in a pan with a splash of milk.

Freezing? Yeah, you can. But be warned, the texture might change a bit. Still tastes lush though. Make sure it's completely cool before freezing.

When reheating from frozen, add a bit of liquid to combat dryness.

Variations: Spice It Up!

Fancy a change? No worries! For a vegetarian version, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Easy peasy. To make it spicy, chuck in some chilli flakes with the cheese.

Hello, flavour!

Got some leftover roasted veggies? Throw them in. Corn, peas, anything goes. Experiment! That’s what cooking's all about. And it's a fab way to use what is lingering in the fridge.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl

This homemade cheesy rice is more than just a tasty treat. It's got carbs for energy. Plus, protein from the cheese.

It is not quite salad level but it is still good. A little bit of everything, you know?

Keep in mind, the calories will depend on how much cheese you use. But hey, a little bit of what you fancy does you good, as they say! I think this makes it a pretty good choice.

So there you have it. My guide to making the perfect quick cheesy rice . Get in the kitchen and get cooking! You got this, and don't forget to try it out one pot cheesy rice or as a cheesy rice casserole

Quick Cheesy Rice The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cheesy rice recipe easy cheesy enough for a total beginner, like someone who burns water?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be super simple. As long as you can boil water (and I'm sure you can!), you can make this cheesy rice. Just follow the instructions step-by-step, and you'll have a delicious and comforting side dish in no time. There is no way you can have a Gordon Ramsey shouting match in your kitchen with this recipe!

Can I make this cheesy rice recipe easy cheesy in advance, or is it best served immediately?

While cheesy rice is best served immediately when the cheese is at its melty, gooey peak, you can make it in advance. Just be aware that it might lose a bit of its creamy texture as it sits. Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creaminess, or in the microwave.

What are some good variations I can try to spice up my cheesy rice?

Fancy getting a bit cheffy? Loads of ways to jazz it up! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or stir in some cooked broccoli or peas for added veggies. For a richer flavour, use Gruyere or a blend of cheeses instead of just cheddar. You could even add cooked bacon bits - everything's better with bacon, right?

How should I store leftover cheesy rice, and how long will it last?

Store any leftover cheesy rice in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll be good for about 3-4 days. Make sure it cools down a bit before popping it in the fridge, and give it a good reheat before eating. Nobody wants to risk a dodgy tummy!

I'm watching my waistline, so is there a healthier way to make this cheesy rice recipe easy cheesy but less calorific?

You bet! To lighten it up, use a lower-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese you use overall. You could also substitute brown rice for white rice, which is higher in fibre and will keep you feeling fuller for longer. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will also reduce the fat content. You could also try adding some vegetables such as cauliflower rice to reduce the overall carbohydrate content of the rice.

Can I use different types of cheese for this cheesy rice recipe easy cheesy dish?

Absolutely! The great thing about cheesy rice is its versatility. Cheddar is a classic, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack for a milder flavour, Gruyere for a nutty taste, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for some sharpness. Just be mindful of the salt content in different cheeses, and adjust the seasoning accordingly, or you'll end up with something inedible!.